Sunflower Picking at Stanley Pond Adventure Farm
A few weeks ago it was a big anniversary for me and my husband, but of course no trips were taken, no fancy dinners were enjoyed, and really besides sushi take out, we celebrated mostly at home with Animal Crossing and comfy pjs.
We wanted to do something outside, so we opted for a trip out in the “country” away from crowds. That took us to Astatula. It’s about 20 miles outside of Orlando, and it’s home to Stanley Pond Adventure Farm.
Normally, this farm has lots of activities and seasonal festivals for families to enjoy year-round, but like most businesses, they’ve felt the impact of current events shutting down most of their offerings. The sunflower fields however, are still open to the public, and because its location is outside the city and not as well-known as other fields, we had most of the property to ourselves.
If you’ve visited Southern Hills Farm, you’ll notice these sunflowers are smaller, and grow a bit more wild. There were some variances in the colors from darker oranges to yellows.
How it works:
You need to give the owner “Sunflower Bob” a call and let him know you are planning your visit and when.
He’ll instruct you about the rules of the property, the cost ($10 per person), and how he handles payment (it’s cash only).
Once you arrive you’ll call him again and he will show you where the bathrooms are and then escort you to the sunflower field (you follow along in your car behind his golf cart).
Once you get to the field he will briefly show you the proper way to cut the sunflowers, and he supplies you with everything you need, including the vase you get to keep.
After he gives you instructions, he’s back on his cart and tending to other matters, so you are left to enjoy the fields.
In addition to sunflowers, you’ll also find beautiful zinnia bushes you can pick from for an additional cost.
Professional photographers that wish to use the grounds for photo sessions can pay a fee and get the sunflower fields to themselves at peak photo glow time. Also, to those planning a wedding and are looking for a cheaper flower alternative, Bob allows brides to come pick as many flowers as they need for their big day for reasonable fee.
For more information about picking sunflowers you can contact Bob through the phone number listed on their Facebook page.
If you make the trek out to Astatula I would recommend visiting Yahala Bakery which isn’t far from these fields. Yahala Bakery is a German bakery with delicious baked goods and sandwiches. It’s also home to what I believe to be the best eclair I’ve ever had. Their outside seating makes it easy to eat a safe distance away from other patrons, or you can grab and go.
Stanley Pond Adventure Farm is located at 15426 County Road 48 Astatula, Florida 34705.
Yahala Bakery is located at 8210 County Rd 48 Yalaha, FL 34797.
All pictures are property of LemonHearted Creative and everything noted in this post was paid for personally.